The City of Oaks comes alive on the weekends with plenty of things to see and do for people of all ages. From outdoor activities to some of the best food in North Carolina, here are some of the best things to do in Raleigh this weekend.
Places to stay in Raleigh
The StateView Hotel
Are you looking for the perfect place to stay during your Raleigh weekend getaway? Look no further than the StateView Hotel. Located just minutes from downtown Raleigh, The StateView Hotel offers delectable on-site dining, a heated saltwater pool with views of Lake Raleigh, a 24-hour fitness center and so much more. Our modern hotel rooms in Raleigh, NC offer all the comforts of home with smart TVs, walk-in showers, and luxe decor. Plus, with some of the best Raleigh breweries and wineries nearby, our boutique hotel is a convenient home base for your weekend Raleigh activities.
Raleigh Outdoor Activities
Raleigh weather is comfortable year-round, making it easy to get outdoors on your weekend getaway. Our boutique North Carolina hotel is nestled alongside Lake Raleigh, but if you’re looking to explore outdoor activities in Raleigh this weekend. Pullen Park and Umstead State Park are two favorable options. Each one offers something different, but you can’t go wrong with either one.
Pullen Park
As the first public park in North Carolina, Pullen Park is an excellent option if you’re traveling with friends or family. The park features exciting amusement rides that are perfect for kids of all ages. You can also take advantage of pedal boats, tennis courts, a cafe and so much more offered to park guests for a small fee. Visitors can easily spend an entire weekend in Raleigh at Pullen Park!
Umstead State Park
Consisting of three man-made lakes, nearly 35 miles of hiking trails, a variety of boat ramps, and more, Umstead State Park is brimming with activities to fill your weekend in Raleigh. In addition to its lush landscape, the park offers a variety of FREE year-round educational weekend events in Raleigh for all ages. From fishing to horseback riding, anglers and equestrians alike will appreciate the beauty of Umstead State Park.
Check out more of the best parks in Raleigh near The StateView Hotel.
Weekend Events in Raleigh
Have you asked yourself, “what should I do in Raleigh this weekend?” This North Carolina city is jam-packed with year-round weekend events. Below are a few of our favorites:
Carolina Mudcats
Sports fans will revel in Raleigh’s weekend baseball scene with a visit to a Carolina Mudcats game. As an affiliate of the Milwaukee Bruins, you never know who you might see! Grab a beer, a hotdog and enjoy this grand slam weekend event in Raleigh. With in-season games scheduled Thursday through Sunday, you’ll have plenty of time to visit this local baseball team.
Are We There Yet? North Carolina’s Variety Vacationland, 1930s-1970s
Vacationers can look back at tourism through the years at this interactive North Carolina Museum of History photography exhibit. Variety Vacationland, a state-wide campaign aimed at increasing tourism after the Great Depression, spanned multiple decades and featured a range of collateral. This FREE Raleigh weekend activity is perfect for a rainy day.
Discover a full list of Raleigh events happening this weekend.
Places to eat in Raleigh this Weekend
Are you wondering where you should eat in Raleigh this weekend? This eclectic city is a foodie favorite with a wealth of bars, restaurants, food trucks and more. We’ve highlighted a few delectable dining options to visit on your Raleigh weekend trip:
Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar boasts locally-sourced Italian cuisine, craft cocktails, and amazing views of the Raleigh cityscape. This cozy downtown restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining, as well as private dining options. Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar is just one stop on your gastronomic journey during your weekend in Raleigh, NC.
Morgan Street Food Hall
Are you unsure of what you want to eat in Raleigh this weekend? Morgan Street Food Hall features 21 unique restaurants that will tempt your tastebuds. This trending food hall is serving up a variety of fare from waffles, to sandwiches, to burgers, tacos, sushi and more. This one-stop-shop allows you to nosh and nibble on a fusion of flavors from around the world. Check out their hours and schedule a stop at this hidden on your Raleigh weekend trip.
The Videri Chocolate Factory
If you’re craving dessert, Videri Chocolate Factory will satisfy any sweet tooth. This bean-to-bar eatery is serving up more than chocolate with allergy-friendly menu options.
Self-guided tours and samples are free from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and if you’re interested in seeing the chocolate makers in-person, stop by Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Need more food to fill your weekend in Raleigh? Check out our favorite restaurants near NCSU.
Honorary Mention
The Green Light
Nestled behind a bookcase at The Architect Bar & Social House, The Green Light is a hidden Raleigh speakeasy situated in an old architect’s office. This movie-like escape is pouring up perfect cocktail concoctions for an impressive Raleigh weekend nightlife adventure. The dramatically intimate setting is intriguing making it a fun date idea on your Raleigh weekend getaway!
If you need more help navigating this historic city in NC, check out our Raleigh, NC visitors guide and be sure to book your stay today.